Blog: Welcoming Brian Burt

Before I welcome the newest member of halfwheel, we unfortunately are sad to say farewell to another.

Charlie “Ray” Stahl, who wrote alongside me at TheCigarFeed from that publication’s modest start in June of 2010, is stepping aside at halfwheel. While Stahl never published an article at halfwheel, he was a key part of the transition that began in August of 2011. I’d like to take this time to thank Charlie for his work at halfwheel and wish him all the best in his move back to Northern Kentucky Southern Ohio. (There’s a joke in there somewhere.)

In related, but not linked news, I’d also like to introduce to you are newest writer, Brian Burt.

Brian was the publisher of Stogies N Brews, and more importantly is a resident of the great state of Texas. You can follow Brian on Twitter at @brutus2600 and you’ll be able to read his first review later this week.

Here’s a brief message from Brian:

Hi halfwheel readers and fellow cigar lovers!

My name is Brian and I am the newest writer at halfwheel. I’ve been smoking cigars for about seven years and reviewing them as a hobby for almost two. For a long time I followed both TheCigarFeed and SmokingStogie and when they merged, I subsequently kept up with halfwheel.

Between the breaking news, high caliber reviews, and fantastic photography, it immediately became my go to blog when looking into new releases of limited edition and hard to find cigars. Three weeks ago I got an unexpected phone call from Brooks and Charlie asking me if I’d like to join the halfwheel review team. It took me by a bit of surprise, but I recovered in about a half a second and quickly agreed.

halfwheel is a unique and amazing cigar blog and I’m humbled, honored, and excited to be a part of it. I hope that you enjoy reading my reviews as much as I enjoy writing them!

Since we are on the topic of personnel, I will deal with yet another unrelated discussion. Many have inquired about Steve Valle, in short, Steve is not part of halfwheel. I wish I could say more on the topic, but truth be told, that’s about all there is to it. Both Brooks and I wish Steve all the best, wherever he may be.

In the mean time, I invite you to say farewell to Charlie Stahl and welcome Brian Burt.